Читать книгу Regency: Mischief & Marriage: Secret Heiress / Bartered Bride - Anne Herries, Anne Herries - Страница 10

Eliza woke with a sigh on her lips. Her dream had been so enjoyable. She had been living at a pleasant house in the country. In the garden children were playing and she had been aware of a feeling of deep content.

The feeling faded as she recalled that the Marquis of Cheadle was calling that morning. He would want to know every detail of what had happened when a masked highwayman held his carriage at pistol point, and there was so much she could never tell him.

Had she been able to avoid what must obviously be an awkward interview, she would have done so. However, she suspected that the marquis did not give up easily. He was determined to have the truth and she must try to oblige him, without giving Daniel’s secret away.

Oh dear, she was beginning to think of Lord Seaton as Daniel. She suspected that he had been at the centre of her happy dream the previous night and knew she was being very silly. Kate had told her that he was a consummate flirt, though not precisely a rake. He had a mistress and might consider she was fair game, for a companion was not off bounds as a girl like Kate Henderson would be.

A part of her felt that she had known him for years. She both liked and trusted him despite his brief adventure as a highwayman, yet she must not like him too much.

Dressing in a simple grey gown that was far more suitable for her situation than the gown she had worn the previous evening, she went along the hall to see if her employer needed anything. It would be best for all concerned if she put Lord Seaton out of her mind.

Both Eliza and Lady Sarah were in the parlour when the marquis was announced at a quarter to noon. Eliza felt a sinking sensation in her stomach as he was shown into the elegant room.

However, the marquis seemed a perfectly polite gentleman, enquiring after the ladies’ health before sitting down and turning his attention to Eliza.

‘Well, Miss Bancroft, perhaps you could explain to me what happened that day? My coachman says that the rogue rode off with you. He was fearful for your safety, but you returned a short while later seeming none the worse for your ordeal.’ His gaze narrowed intently. ‘Could you explain that little mystery, please?’

Eliza glanced at Lady Sarah and then took a deep breath. ‘I am not perfectly certain what was intended, sir. The… gentleman seemed interested in discovering what I was doing in your carriage, sir.’ Her cheeks felt hot as she avoided his eyes. ‘I hardly like to say what was implied…’

‘Indeed?’ The marquis was silent for a moment, then, ‘May I hazard a guess that the rogue imagined you my mistress?’

‘I think something of the kind was in his mind. When I denied it I was allowed to return to the carriage.’

‘I see.’ The marquis stood up and took a little turn about the parlour before coming back to her. ‘It would seem the rogue claims to have knowledge of me. I must have made an enemy. Were you robbed, Miss Bancroft? I shall repay whatever was stolen, for it was clearly I or someone close to me he meant to rob.’

‘No. My purse was returned to me and a ring that is precious to me. It is all I have of my mother, you see.’

‘And he did not harm or insult you in any way?’

‘Not at all, sir.’ Eliza faltered. ‘I thought it a foolish prank—perhaps for a wager?’

‘A prank you think? Had my men used their weapons, he or they might have died or been badly injured. I do not call that a mere prank, Miss Bancroft.’ She looked at him. His gaze was so severe that she dropped her head. ‘Was there anything you noticed in particular about the rogue? His voice, manner—the colour of his eyes?’

‘Oh…’ She hesitated, then, ‘His voice was rough, but may have been disguised. His eyes may have been grey… or perhaps blue. I could not be certain, sir. I was a little nervous. I am sorry I cannot tell you more.’

‘You have told me more than you imagine,’ he replied with a nod of satisfaction. ‘Plainly, the man is no common thief, but someone with a grudge against me personally.’

‘Who do you think it could be?’ Lady Sarah asked as Eliza remained silent.

‘Someone who knows me well enough to need to disguise himself, though not as well as he imagines. I do not trap decent young ladies into becoming my mistress, though I shall not deny certain accommodations in the past with married ladies who understood the rules.’ His expression relaxed a little. ‘Please forgive me, Miss Bancroft. I am sorry you were used so ill when under my protection. The rogue will be brought to justice, I assure you. If he is a gentleman, he will meet me for this and think himself fortunate to escape the noose.’

‘I am sorry you feel this a personal slight. I am certain it was a harmless prank.’

‘I am surprised that you should take this so calmly, Miss Bancroft. Very surprised.’

He looked at Eliza hard and she blushed. What must he be thinking? Perhaps that she was involved with a man of ill repute—and therefore not the proper person to be companion to Lady Sarah?’

She noticed that he rubbed at the little finger of his left hand, as if he were seeking for something he had lost. Lady Sarah noticed it too.

‘You do not wear your ring,’ Lady Sarah murmured. ‘Is it lost?’

‘Temporarily. I hope to have it restored soon.’

‘Mine was lost years ago, but a ring is just a ring. Memories never leave one.’

During the silence that followed her words, Eliza sensed an undercurrent of feeling—of sharing. It was so intense that she wished she might leave them together without appearing to suggest she understood. In her mind there was no doubt that there had been something special between the marquis and her employer. She could feel the sadness and saw echoes of a lost love in Lady Sarah’s eyes. Her senses told her that there was an old mystery here, but in seconds the barriers were in place again. A casual politeness was resumed and the marquis turned to Eliza, his eyes narrowed and thoughtful.

‘My wife and daughter are in Bath. They did not attend the assembly last evening for they wished to recover from the journey. I think my daughter must be two years or so younger than you, Miss Bancroft. I shall make certain that both you and Lady Sarah are invited to our ball.’

‘How kind of you, sir,’ Eliza said.

‘We shall be delighted to attend.’ Lady Sarah smiled a little wistfully. ‘How is Marianne? And your wife?’

‘Both are well. In confidence, I must tell you that we are expecting an offer for Marianne quite soon.’

‘I am sure she will marry well. She is, I know, a delightful girl.’

The marquis nodded, glanced at his watch, asked to be forgiven and took his leave.

Lady Sarah was silent for a few minutes after he had gone, staring into space as if her mind were elsewhere. Eliza noticed that her hand trembled as she reached for a glass of restorative wine. She gave a little cry as it tipped and spilled a few drops.

‘How clumsy of me…’

‘So easily done,’ Eliza said and swiftly wiped the spill with a napkin the maid had brought earlier with their refreshments. ‘There, it was only a little and no harm done…’ She turned and saw that Lady Sarah’s cheeks were wet with tears. ‘Ma’am, are you ill?’

‘No, just upset.’ Lady Sarah dabbed at her cheeks with a lace kerchief. ‘Sit beside me, Eliza. I am going to tell you a secret, because I think you may have guessed at least a part of my story.’

‘You need tell me nothing, ma’am.’

‘I wish you to know.’ Lady Sarah reached for her hand. ‘You will speak of this to no one else. I know I may trust you, my dear. I was once very much in love with the gentleman who has just left us. He was handsome and charming, but at the time not rich. I was married to Lord Manners. He was not kind or loving and spent all his time with his mistresses in town. Because I was lonely, I was drawn into a love affair with a younger man. Henry was charming and he adored me. My husband discovered the affair, but would not release me. When my lover’s child was born, he took it away from me and forced me to give up my lover. I was devastated, but my husband was a cold cruel man and Cheadle would have been ruined had I defied him. He was younger than I and I felt it would be unfair to burden him with a woman who could not appear in society and a child—and so I chose seclusion in the country, where I stayed seeing only a few friends until my husband died.’

‘Oh, ma’am, how dreadful for you,’ Eliza exclaimed in sympathy. ‘I am so very sorry. I think you loved the marquis very much?’

‘He begged me to go away with him. My husband warned me that he would follow and kill us both. Even had my lover killed him in a duel, which he wanted to do, he would have lost everything. He could not have been an officer in the army with such a scandal hanging over him, and his uncle might easily have disowned him. I could not ruin his life so I agreed to my husband’s terms, though it broke my heart. Do you think me weak and foolish?’

‘Certainly not. You were trapped. There was nothing else you could do.’

‘I felt trapped until my husband died. He never forgave me and took every chance to punish me.’

‘I think you must have suffered a great deal.’

‘Yes, that is true. I have been lonely despite my friends and my son, who is very like his father. I hope one day to find my lost child, but my husband did not make it easy for me. Should I find her and acknowledge her, I should lose the right to live at the Dower House and the portion of his estate he left me. That would not leave me penniless, for I have money of my own, which was denied me while my husband lived—but I should be loathe to lose my home. However, I am determined to find my daughter if I can.’ Her hand tightened on Eliza’s. ‘At least I have you to keep me company. You have brought me a great deal of pleasure, Eliza. Indeed, it is almost like having my daughter with me.’

‘I am happy to be of some comfort to you, ma’am.’

For a moment Eliza was tempted to tell her her own story, but she decided that it would sound too particular, as if she were claiming some kind of kinship with Lady Sarah. That would be too much of a coincidence and was a foolish notion, which she instantly dismissed—though the stories were undoubtedly similar.

‘You are far more than that. Having you here has given me a reason to live, Eliza. I was quite low before you came.’

Eliza smiled and held her hand until she recovered her spirits. She was surprised and honoured to have been given her employer’s confidence. It showed trust and liking on Lady Sarah’s part and gave Eliza a warm glow inside. Not since Mama’s death had she felt needed or loved in quite this way. Of course no one would ever replace the woman who had given her so much love in her heart, but there was room for a good friend and she had found that friend in Lady Sarah.

‘Your invitation to join you was such a wonderful thing for me, ma’am. I had so little experience and did not know if my advertisement would bring any answers.’

‘It was so honest and simple that I knew you would be the right kind of girl. I shall of course keep you with me until you wish to move on, Eliza. I spoke of a trial period, but already I know you so well.’ She sighed with relief. ‘I feel better for having told you.’ She sat up straight in her chair. ‘Now we must both get ready. We are going visiting this afternoon. We shall call and take a dish of tea with various of my friends, but first we must have nuncheon here. Just a light meal, for this evening, as you know, we dine with Lady Julia and Kate.’

The afternoon passed swiftly. Eliza found herself looking from the carriage window in the hope of catching sight of Daniel Seaton. Had she known his direction she might have sent a short note to his lodgings warning him that the Marquis of Cheadle intended to discover the identity of the highwayman. She hoped she had not said anything that would give the marquis a clue. She had sensed something between him and Lord Seaton when they spoke the previous evening. Did Cheadle already suspect him? No, no, why should he? Yet there was definitely some hidden antagonism between the two.

The marquis intended to get to the bottom of the affair. Eliza wished that she could warn Daniel, but fate was not kind to her that day. He was nowhere to be seen in the streets they drove through, nor was he invited to Lady Julia’s dinner.

It was not until the next morning that fortune smiled on her. Lady Sarah had asked that she visit the library and pick up a small packet from the home of Dr Morgan.

‘Doctor Morgan has prepared some new powders for me, Eliza. I could send one of the maids, but I prefer not to disclose private matters to others and the servants will talk. His house is close by the library and it will save the doctor another visit.’

‘I shall be happy to fetch the books and your medicine.’

Eliza was pleased with the chance of a walk. She hoped she might have the good fortune to meet with Daniel Seaton and chanced to see him leaving a small hotel opposite the doctor’s house.

‘Lord Seaton,’ she called. ‘A moment, if you please.’

He heard her voice and crossed the quiet street to greet her with a warm smile. ‘Well met, Miss Bancroft. I was thinking I might call on the chance you were free to drive out with me this afternoon.’

‘I fear I have a prior arrangement with Miss Henderson, but I am glad of a chance to speak with you, sir. Had I known the direction of your lodgings, I should have sent a note yesterday.’

‘Indeed?’ His eyes were suddenly intent and very blue. ‘That sounds serious.’

‘I believe it may be. The Marquis of Cheadle knows of the hold-up. He questioned me closely. I told him as little as I dare, but he suspects the highwayman may be a gentleman—perhaps someone he knows.’

‘I am undone,’ Daniel cried and grinned as he saw her start of alarm. ‘No, Miss Bancroft, how could he guess? I dare say there are a hundred gentlemen in London who may have a score to settle with Cheadle.’

‘I think he suspects there was more to the affair than I have told him—that I am perhaps in league with a person of ill repute.’

‘That might make things awkward for you, for he could try to influence your employer against you.’

‘He means to find the man responsible.’

‘Well, I think he will find that difficult.’ Daniel frowned. ‘Still, for your sake, it may be best if we do not appear to be on intimate terms, Miss Bancroft. I would not have you suffer for such a piece of nonsense. However, my advice remains the same—be careful of Cheadle, for I would not trust him. I have good reason for what I say, believe me.’

‘I believe he is painted blacker than he truly is, sir,’ Eliza said, thinking of what Lady Sarah had told her.

‘Indeed? You must know more of him than I, Miss Bancroft.’

‘Oh, no…’ She blushed under his eagle eye. ‘I hardly know him at all. I believe he could be a dangerous man to have as your enemy, my lord. Perhaps you should tread carefully in your dealings with him.’

‘You think so?’ He looked vastly offended. ‘I am not afraid of any man.’

‘No! I did not mean that, of course. It is simply that I feel as if I have known you for so long and I care what—’ She broke off in confusion—she had said far too much.

The expression of annoyance faded and a twinkle appeared in his eyes. ‘Do you, Miss Bancroft? How very odd that is to be sure. I thought it was but a few weeks since I knocked you into the bramble bush and then held a gun pointed at your heart.’

‘You like to mock me, sir. You must understand that our—acquaintance—has been a trifle unusual.’ She had a tight rein on her feelings now. ‘You knew perfectly well what I meant.’

He met her accusing look with one of amusement. ‘Perfectly, since I feel much the same. I would go so far as to say you are in my thoughts almost constantly, Miss Bancroft. You have quite overset all my well-laid plans.’

‘I do not understand you, sir.’

‘Do you not?’ He laughed softly. ‘Perhaps that is as well, for truly I do not either.’

‘You speak in riddles, sir.’ Eliza gave him a frowning glance, but her heart raced. There was such a look in his eyes, a look that seemed to challenge and provoke. She knew he was flirting with her, but could not quite squash the tiny seed of hope that had insensibly taken root in her heart. Her senses told her that this growing feeling between them was more than mere liking, but her mind denied it as a foolish girl’s dream. The sensible woman in her knew that she could never be more to him than a flirt.

She was a lovechild, a bastard, born of good families and brought up as the daughter of a country parson. Papa had been the third son of an impoverished baron, Mama the daughter of a schoolteacher. Lord Seaton was from another world, another class. She must never forget that, because if she did she would lose her claim to respectability.

‘Well, I have told you of the marquis’s intent,’ she said, recalling her duties. ‘Lady Sarah will be waiting for me.’

‘When shall I see you again? Do you attend the assembly tomorrow evening?’

He had moved closer, as if he would physically prevent her leaving. She saw his expression, the hot glow in his eyes, and her heart caught. There was something about him that told her he wanted more of her but she instinctively knew that he would think only in terms of a brief affair… a few kisses and more if he could persuade the foolish little companion to forget her modesty.

‘I am not certain. I believe we attend the theatre this evening. Lady Sarah wishes to see the production of The Taming of the Shrew.’

‘One of my favourite of Shakespeare’s works,’ Daniel declared and smiled. ‘It is also my intention to see this production. Who knows, perhaps we shall meet there, Miss Bancroft?’

‘Yes, perhaps. Now, if you will excuse me, I really must go.’

‘Must you?’ His gaze made her tremble. She almost thought he would seize her and kiss her in the street and drew back. He laughed and stood away from her. ‘Yes, I suppose you must. Yet perhaps one day I shall have my wish.’

Eliza was not prepared to ask him for an explanation. She walked away, head high, very conscious of his eyes watching her. Lord Seaton had done nothing to make her believe she was special to him, yet she was certain his decision to attend the theatres was an impulse. He had changed his plans so that they might meet for a short time. It was all they could have, just snatched moments of time when she was out walking or they both attended a function. Had she been a young lady of fortune, she would have suspected him of courting her, but as a companion she could not look so high.

Daniel watched her walk away. He knew that he was playing a dangerous game, risking everything by delaying the inevitable. His best interests clearly lay with Susanne Roberts, but he could not bring himself to speak to her or her father.

Amused by his own foolishness, Daniel turned to discover a gentleman he considered one of his best friends advancing towards him.

‘Hastings,’ he saluted him with a grin. ‘What brings you to Bath? I thought you settled in the country for a few months.’

‘Necessity,’ Jack Hastings grimaced. ‘Mama came to visit. She nagged me constantly for a week and so I brought her to Bath. I am told it is time I took myself a bride and set up my nursery. So I must find a suitable girl I can admire—preferably pretty, good-tempered and an heiress, though the money is not as important as the rest.’

Daniel nodded. His friend was dark-hared with grey eyes and a pleasant countenance. Popular with the ladies, he should have no difficulty in finding the right bride.

‘Then we are in similar straits, Jack. I need to marry well, though at the moment I have little inclination for it.’

‘You seemed vastly entertained by the young lady I saw you talking to just now.’

‘Miss Eliza Bancroft?’ It was on the tip of Daniel’s tongue to tell him that Eliza was a companion and therefore not suitable but an imp of mischief made him withhold the information. ‘Ah, yes. She won’t do for you, Jack. Besides, I saw her first, so you have no chance.’

‘Caught your fancy, has she?’ Jack Hastings instantly took up the challenge. ‘Miss Eliza Bancroft, eh? I suppose she is an heiress?’

‘I couldn’t possibly say…’

‘Keeping her all to yourself? You sly dog!’ Jack chuckled. ‘Well, all is fair in love and war, so they say. We’ll see who she prefers. Where is she staying?’

‘In the Crescent with Lady Sarah Manners.’ Daniel relented. ‘I do not think Miss Bancroft is your type, Jack. Cheadle is in town. I rather thought you liked Miss Marianne?’

‘Yes, I do.’ Jack looked gloomy. ‘She had her eye on a duke—at least, her mother did. I may inherit a fortune one day, but I’ll never be more than a baronet. Marianne wants more than that.’

‘Well, if the duke doesn’t come up to scratch she may turn to you. If I wanted her, I would go after her—sweep her off her feet. She will fall in love with you and forget about marrying nobility.’

‘Do you really think so?’ Jack Hastings looked thoughtful. ‘I believed she liked me for a while, then she went cool and wouldn’t look at me. Will you walk to the club with me, Daniel? I have a business proposition I want your advice on—if you would oblige me?’

‘Yes, of course, though I’m not sure I am the man to ask about money.’

‘It concerns setting up a racing stable. With your experience and guidance I think I might just give it a go. I should like you to look some horses over for me and see if you think they would be any good for racing. There are some yearlings and a horse I’m told has huge potential over the hurdles.’

‘In that case I should be delighted to give you my advice.’

‘It was a stroke of luck meeting you,’ Jack said, clearly pleased. ‘We could take a look this afternoon, if you like?’

‘Why not? I have nothing in particular to do, though I am going to the theatre this evening.’

‘We should be back in plenty of time.’

Daniel was pleased that his advice had been sought, because he was considered a good judge of horse flesh. It might be fate that had brought his friend to Bath. He would do well to concentrate on helping Jack to set up his stables and put Miss Eliza Bancroft out of his mind.

The letter from the Bow Street Runner he had employed was waiting for Daniel when he returned to his lodgings. He had been making exhaustive inquiries and thought he was on the trail of something important.

If my instincts are right, and they seldom fail, my lord, I believe we may have uncovered some very nasty goings on. You were on the right track, but this may be much bigger and more widespread than we imagine. I must go down to Bristol, for I think Jed Bailey may provide us with a clue, and it is my information that the girl Molly is with him. They may be in fear of their lives, but I shall write again as soon as I have something more positive.

Daniel frowned over the letter. He had hoped he was wrong, that his agent would say there was no foundation for his suspicions, but it looked as if this affair could turn out to be much worse than he had guessed—and that might result in a terrible scandal. Unless he could keep his cousin’s name out of it and somehow bring the culprits to book without giving his uncle more heartbreak.

He would have to give the matter a lot of thought. Something like this could be dangerous, both for him and the man he had employed. He must write and warn him to take no risks. If necessary, Daniel would have to employ more than one Runner to make certain this did not get out of hand.

Eliza knew that she should not let herself hope Lord Seaton would visit their box at the theatre that evening, but the possibility hovered at the back of her mind. She tried to be sensible, for she was enjoying herself and had become fast friends with Kate and her mama, though she suspected they both liked to gossip rather more than was wise.

They spent the afternoon visiting and, rather to her surprise, Eliza found herself warmly received by everyone. Even a chance meeting with Lady Roberts at the home of a mutual friend proved much pleasanter than on previous occasions. The lady gave her some intent looks and her thin lips formed a smile as she nodded to herself, seeming to confirm something in her mind. She mentioned in passing that her nephew would be in town the following week.

Eliza wondered why the lady would think it necessary to give her this information, but there was no doubt that her manner towards Eliza had undergone a distinct change.

Lady Sarah remarked on it as they drove home to rest and then change for the evening.

‘Not that I am surprised my friends should take to you, Eliza. You have charming manners, my love. I am certain they must make you acceptable to everyone.’

‘You treat me so generously, ma’am. I am sure that is the reason people are being so kind.’

Lady Sarah shook her head, but smiled to herself, seeming satisfied with the explanation.

‘My friends have accepted you for my sake,’ she said.

Eliza agreed that it must be so.

Lady Sarah was very close to the truth, but she might have been shocked had she realised the story that had begun to circulate. Fortunately, as yet it was only being whispered of by a few ladies and had not reached the ears of the gossipmongers.

However, Eliza could not help being aware that people turned their heads to look at her as she and Lady Sarah took their seats that evening. In the few minutes before the lights were dimmed, she sensed curious looks directed at her. However, she forgot all about them as the curtain went up and the play began.

It was during the first interval that something surprising happened. Not one, but four gentlemen visited their box, two of whom were unknown to Lady Sarah and Eliza. They came with friends and asked to be introduced to Miss Bancroft and Lady Sarah.

In the second interval, Lord Seaton and a friend he introduced as Jack Hastings arrived. Jack was gallant enough to go in search of drinks for them all while Daniel took a seat at Eliza’s side.

‘Are you enjoying your evening, Miss Bancroft?’

‘The play is excellent,’ she replied. ‘We have had a stream of visitors. I think Lady Sarah must have a great many friends, though she claimed not to know some of the gentlemen who visited.’

‘Indeed?’ Daniel frowned as a suspicion came to his mind. ‘I had noticed some interest in this box myself. It is a little curious, unless—’ He broke off and looked thoughtful. ‘I shall discover what is going on and tell you tomorrow afternoon. May I ask if you and Miss Henderson would care for a drive in my curricle? I could ask Mr Hastings to accompany us…’

‘I think that would be pleasant.’ Eliza leaned forwards to tap Kate on the arm and put the suggestion to her. Kate glanced round at Lord Seaton and gave him an amused glance, agreeing that a drive would be delightful. ‘We should enjoy such an outing, sir. At what time will you call?’

‘Shall we say two in the afternoon?’

‘Yes. Kate must take nuncheon with us. You will, Kate?’ Her friend nodded and she looked at Daniel. ‘We shall be ready when you call.’

Mr Hastings returned with a waiter and their champagne. The cork was popped and they toasted one another, laughing and smiling.

‘I say, that fellow is rather rude,’ Jack said, giving a young buck in the audience a frown for his impertinence. ‘He had been ogling you for the past ten minutes, Miss Bancroft. Shall I go and tell him to mind his manners?’

‘Oh, no, he is probably admiring Kate,’ Eliza said. ‘She has many admirers.’

‘Yes, I am certain she does,’ he agreed. ‘She is very pretty—but of course you are beautiful, Miss Bancroft—or may I call you Miss Eliza?’

‘Oh…’ She was flustered by his request. ‘If you wish it, I see no reason why not, Mr Hastings.’

‘You must call me Jack,’ he said and grinned at her. ‘I am certain we shall all be great friends. I shall ask Mama to invite you all to her dinner next week.’

As the bell to announce the end of the interval rang then, Eliza was saved from making a reply as the gentlemen left. She caught the mischief in Kate’s eyes, but refrained from asking what she thought so amusing.

The third interval brought another stream of visitors to their box, all of them gentlemen, or, in one case, a lady known to them with her nephew, who had just joined her in Bath. Eliza hoped that Lord Seaton might return, but he did not; though she enjoyed the performance very much, she was disappointed not to have seen more of him.

He was much in her thoughts when she went to bed that evening, but she slept peacefully without dreaming.

Next morning was spent running small errands for Lady Sarah, and greeting Kate when she arrived for nuncheon.

‘I am looking forward to our drive this afternoon,’ Kate said. ‘Mama told me she intends to visit Lady Sarah so you must not worry that she will be alone.’

‘Your mama is very kind,’ Eliza said. ‘Lady Sarah wished to stay home for once, but she will be pleased to see Lady Julia—they are such good friends.’

‘Yes, they are,’ Kate agreed and put on an innocent air. ‘Mama has known her all her life. They remained friends after… the trouble with Lord Manners. Lady Sarah has no secrets from my mother.’ Kate’s eyes sparkled with mischief. ‘Mama generally tells me most things, but she has merely hinted at something concerning you… she thinks she knows your secret, Eliza.’

‘My secret?’ Eliza’s heart pounded. Could Lady Julia have discovered that she was a lovechild? ‘I have no secret, Kate. I cannot think what you mean.’

‘You need not be afraid. Mama has not told me exactly, and neither of us would wish to harm you—but you may confide in me, you know. You are not quite what you seem—are you?’

‘Kate…’ Eliza’s cheeks burned—it seemed that Lady Julia must know the secret of her birth. ‘Please do not mention… I would not wish it generally known.’

‘I knew it,’ Kate crowed and squeezed her arm. ‘Not a word shall pass my lips, I promise. Now, tell me, what did you think of Mr Hastings? Does he not seem an agreeable sort of man?’

Eliza was relieved to have the subject changed. She could not imagine how Lady Julia knew that the Bancrofts were not her parents, but it seemed that she did somehow.

‘Mr Hastings seems very agreeable. I think he and Lord Seaton are close friends.’

‘Yes, that is a fortunate thing,’ Kate replied. ‘I do hope we shall be invited to dinner. I should like to see more of the agreeable Mr Hastings—would not you?’

‘What bee have you got in your bonnet now?’ Eliza was determined to put the embarrassing moment behind her. Kate had promised not to reveal her secret, and though the girl loved to gossip, she would surely keep her word?

Kate smiled and shook her head. Eliza laughed, because she suspected her friend thought Mr Hastings might make Lord Seaton jealous.

When the gentlemen arrived they were both driving smart phaetons with beautiful horses, and both had a young tiger standing up at the back. Kate walked confidently towards Mr Hastings’s rig and was assisted up the steps to sit beside him on the driving box. Eliza approached Lord Seaton’s phaeton with less confidence, feeling a little shy. She had thought they might all go together in an open landau driven by a coachman and was unsure it was a good idea to be seen alone with a gentleman. It was perfectly acceptable for Kate, of course, because the tiger was there for propriety’s sake, but Eliza was a companion and she feared it might look as if she were getting above herself. A gentleman of Daniel’s rank would hardly be courting a humble companion.

However, Lord Seaton’s smile made her forget her fears. His expression was warm, if a little troubled, and he showed great consideration in seeing her settled.

‘I do not think it will be too cold for you,’ he said as she took her seat beside him. ‘However, my tiger has a blanket should you need it.’

‘I am sure I shall not be in the least cold. The sun is very warm and the breeze is most welcome.’

‘How little fuss you make on any account.’ Daniel smiled at her, but she saw a shadow in his eyes. ‘Are you always so forgiving, I wonder? I think what I have to tell you this afternoon may prove upsetting, Miss Eliza… I hope I may call you by your name, as Jack does?’

‘Yes, certainly, my lord.’ Her eyes opened wider as she looked at him curiously. ‘You sound very serious?’

‘I am. Do you think you could call me Seaton, as my friends do? I think Daniel in private, but that may be a step too far just yet?’

‘I think it might be inappropriate, my… sir,’ Eliza said and felt her cheeks getting warm. ‘There is a distance between us, even though you have been kind enough to make nothing of it. Perhaps you should tell me what is in your mind? I think you are troubled—is it on my account?’

‘You are always so perceptive.’ Daniel glanced at her as they left the busy main street and turned off into a quiet country lane. ‘It might have been better had I waited until we could walk alone—but my tiger may be trusted. Even if he could hear us, he would never breathe a word. Would you, Will?’

‘What’s that, my lord?’

Eliza smiled. ‘Are all your servants so well trained?’

‘I rescued Will from the streets of London, where unscrupulous fellows were preying him on. He is grateful for some reason. I really do not know why. I am not an easy master to work for.’ A smothered laugh turned hastily into a cough told Eliza that the tiger’s hearing was perfectly sound. ‘So we may speak freely.’ Daniel hesitated, then, ‘A rumour has started in Bath concerning you, Miss Eliza. I am sorry to tell you that stories are circulating concerning your fortune.’

‘Concerning my fortune? I have none.’ She looked at him in surprise. ‘No, how foolish! Where do the gossips get these stories?’

Hearing an expelled breath, she turned her head to look at him. ‘You do not mean… you could not have thought…’

‘If I am the cause of the rumours, it was a careless remark I made to an acquaintance Carstairs on the evening of the assembly,’ Daniel said. ‘I believe the gown you wore made some people think you were one of the débutantes and he was curious as to who you were. He asked me if I knew your fortune and I told him it would not be enough for him. Unfortunately, he took it into his head that I was trying to put him off, because I intended to make an offer myself. The story has spread, and, as with all such tales, it has grown. You are now believed to be a secret heiress.’

‘But that is terrible,’ Eliza cried, shocked by his words. ‘That must be why all those… how shallow people are…’ Her hands trembled in her lap, but she clasped them firmly together. Had that been what Kate meant? She had thought something different. She would take the first opportunity of disabusing her friend of the idea that she was an heiress. ‘To make so much of a careless remark…’

‘I wish I had bitten off my tongue rather than cause you distress, Eliza. Please forgive me. I did not intend this to happen, believe me—but I should have remembered what a wicked tongue Carstairs has. He is looking for a rich wife, so you may expect him to call.’

‘How awkward,’ Eliza said. ‘I fear he will be much disappointed when he discovers the truth.’

‘You will not tell him, surely?’ Ahead of them the other carriage had pulled to a halt at a point of advantage to admire the view. Daniel did the same. His tiger jumped down and he assisted Eliza to the ground. ‘There is no need for anyone to know.’

Eliza was prevented from replying by Kate, who called to them to come and admire the view a little further along the rise. Eliza gave Daniel a speaking look and walked to join the others, he a step behind her. For some minutes they all admired the view of Bath as it lay below them bathed in sunlight.

Eliza’s thoughts were confused, but she quickly had them in order. Had she been looking to marry, the situation might have been awkward, for she must have told any suitor the truth and it would soon have been common knowledge, but since she was not thinking of marrying anyone the rumour could not really harm anyone.

When Kate and Mr Hastings wandered away to explore a little further, Eliza turned to her companion.

‘I believe you may be right, sir. In time the truth is bound to come out, but for the moment it is probably best to ignore it. Lady Sarah’s friends know I am her penniless companion and will soon set the gabblemongers straight. It would not be proper for me to mention the rumour to anyone, let alone a gentleman who is inclined to speak too freely.’

‘I doubt if he would believe you,’ Daniel said and frowned. ‘Once these idiots get an idea into their heads it is useless to deny it, because they think you are trying to cover it up—though why you should wish to conceal your fortune if you had one is a mystery.’

‘I suppose I might be afraid of fortune hunters.’ Eliza suggested and gave a gurgle of laughter. ‘How silly people are, Seaton. Why can they not judge someone for what they are rather than what they have?’

‘I could not agree more,’ he said. ‘You can see the amusing side to this situation. I admit that I feared you would be angry with me.’

‘In part, Lady Sarah and I are to blame. She has bought me such lovely clothes, clothes a débutante might wear. I did ask her if she was sure I ought to wear a gown like that, but she insisted. I hope it will not upset her when she learns what some people are saying. I am sure she will squash the rumours immediately. If some refuse to believe her, they have only themselves to blame. Besides, it cannot matter—I have no intention of accepting an offer from anyone.’

‘Indeed?’ His brows arched. ‘Do you never wish to be married? Have you a strong dislike of the institution of marriage?’

‘No, certainly not. My parents were happy together…’ Eliza frowned. Her adopted parents had been the perfect couple, but she knew nothing of her true mother or father. ‘I suppose I might marry in the right circumstances, but that is something for the future. While Lady Sarah needs me as a companion I would not think of leaving her.’

‘Ah, I see. Your sentiments are commendable, Miss Eliza. She seems extremely fond of you. It is a shame that her generosity towards you has given some the wrong impression.’

‘Yes. However, if you and others deny the story, I believe it will soon be forgotten. I may not be so popular next time we attend a ball or the theatre, but I shall not let it overset me.’

‘You are such a sensible young lady. I fear a denial may turn some of the old tabbies against you. However, if you smile and say you do not know how the rumour started, I dare say it will go away.’

‘Yes, of course,’ Eliza agreed. If only he knew she was not sensible at all, for she was very much afraid she had fallen in love with him. ‘I am glad you told me, sir, for I am prepared and I shall make a point of telling everyone that I am merely Lady Sarah’s companion.’

‘Perhaps you need not go so far. I am sure that if I drop a few hints about your fortune having been exaggerated the speculation will die a natural death. After all, Lady Marianne Cheadle is in Bath and she is beautiful and an heiress.’

‘I believe she may soon be engaged. I think her parents expect it.’

‘So much the better. It will give the gossips something more interesting to discuss.’ He offered his arm. ‘Shall we stroll in the direction of our friends, Miss Eliza? I believe we ought, do you not agree?’

‘Yes, certainly,’ Eliza replied and smiled at him. ‘You are forgiven, sir. Please do not trouble yourself further on my account. I am certain you have more important things to tease you.’

‘I cannot think of anything more important than the comfort and reputation of a friend,’ Daniel replied. ‘However, I must tell you that I am going out of town for a day or two. Jack wants my advice in the matter of setting up a racing stable. He has been offered some horses and I am to help him purchase them and engage the services of a trainer.’

‘Are you a judge of these things?’ Eliza’s eyes were bright with interest. ‘I have always loved to ride, though I have not been able to for a year or two.’

‘That is a shame. When I return to Bath I shall hire a suitable mount and we may go riding—if you would care for it?’

‘Yes, perhaps—if my employer does not need me.’

‘Your employer seems to wish you to enjoy yourself as much as possible.’ Daniel frowned as she turned her head to call out to Kate. Something about her profile made him think she reminded him of another young girl… but that was impossible. Or was it? He recalled the ring he had taken from Cheadle in that card game and the ring he had seen briefly as Eliza handed it over before he returned it to her. They were very similar in design, though one was obviously meant for a lady’s finger. He thought the inscriptions were identical, though he could not be certain the same person had commissioned them. It was perfectly possible that two different individuals had asked for a similar inscription—and yet in a certain position there was a definite likeness.

When Daniel held up the marquis’s coach, his first thought had been that she was on her way to become Cheadle’s mistress. Eliza had denied it. Her ring came from her mother. The marquis was merely doing her employer a favour by conveying her in his coach. He had accepted her explanation and given the coincidence of the rings no further thought. Now he had begun to wonder.

Was it possible that Eliza was Cheadle’s bastard? She was not so like Marianne Cheadle that it struck you immediately, but for a moment in the sunlight he had seen a likeness.

It was possible that he had stumbled on the truth. It was also possible that the marquis had recommended his bastard to a friend as a companion.

So who was her mother? Eliza said the ring was all she had of her mother. Daniel frowned as he puzzled over the mystery. Her parents had been happy together. Obviously her father could not have known his wife had conceived a child by another man… or was he making a mountain out of a molehill?

Daniel smiled at the foolish notion. Of course Eliza was not Cheadle’s bastard, though if she were… it crossed his mind that he might use the information as blackmail. He dismissed the idea instantly. He still had Cheadle’s ring, but in the morning he would return it and discover what the marquis had to say concerning his cousin Marcus’s suspicious death.